How many visa pathways are available for Spain?

There are 6 visa pathways available for Spain, including 6 routes that lead to permanent residency.

What is the cheapest visa option for Spain?

The lowest government application fee for a Spain visa is $80 USD. Costs vary significantly by visa type, so compare all pathways to find the best fit for your situation.

Can I get permanent residency in Spain?

Yes. Spain has 6 visa pathways that offer a route to permanent residency. Eligibility depends on your qualifications, work experience, and the specific visa category.

How long does it take to get a visa for Spain?

Processing times for Spain visas vary by pathway. The fastest options can be processed in as little as 1 month, though timelines depend on your application type and individual circumstances.

Moving to Spain

6 visa pathways6 routes to PRFrom $80Updated 2026

Spain has emerged as the #1 European destination for both lifestyle migrants and remote workers. The Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) suits retirees and the financially independent, the Digital Nomad Visa launched in 2023 covers remote employees and freelancers, and the Highly Qualified Professional route fast-tracks skilled hires. EU citizenship is reachable in 10 years (2 for Latin Americans, Filipinos, Sephardim, and Andorra/Equatorial Guinea/Portuguese nationals).

Find my best Spain visa

✦Digital Nomad Visa accepts remote employees with €2,762/mo income
✦Non-Lucrative Visa needs no job — €28,800/yr passive income for the main applicant
✦EU citizenship in 2 years for Latin American, Filipino, and Sephardic applicants
✦Beckham Law caps tax at 24% on Spanish-source income up to €600k for 6 years for new arrivals

Digital Nomad(2)

Digital Nomad Visa

Ley de Startups (Art. 74-78)

Spain's Digital Nomad Visa lets remote employees and freelancers live in Spain while working for non-Spanish companies. Beckham-style 24% flat tax available for new residents up to €600k of Spanish-source income for 6 years.

1–2 months$80 feePR in ~5yr

Non-Lucrative Visa

NLV

Residency for the financially independent. No work allowed in Spain — applicants prove €28,800/yr passive income (400% of IPREM) plus €7,200 per dependant. Renewable, leads to PR after 5 years.

1–3 months$130 feePR in ~5yr

Skilled Worker(1)

Highly Qualified Professional

HQP

Fast-track work and residence permit for senior managers, specialists, and STEM hires at companies recognised as 'large companies' or in strategic sectors. Processed under the streamlined Entrepreneurs Law track.

1–2 months$200 feePR in ~5yr

Entrepreneur(2)

Entrepreneur Visa

Visado de Emprendedor

For founders launching innovative business projects with a favourable report from the Ministry of Economy (ENISA-evaluated). Designed for tech and high-potential ventures.

1–3 months$80 feePR in ~5yr

Self-Employed Worker Visa (Cuenta Propia)

Trabajo por Cuenta Propia

Residence permit for foreigners launching their own business or operating as a self-employed professional in Spain. Requires a viable business plan, sufficient capital, and relevant qualifications. Distinct from Spain's Digital Nomad Visa.

3–6 months$220 feePR in ~5yr

Student(1)

Student Visa

Type D Student

Long-stay study permit. Holders may work up to 30 hours/week (Estatuto del Estudiante 2022). Time spent on the student visa counts towards PR eligibility from 2022 onwards.

1–2 months$80 feePR in ~5yr

Where to live